American Heritage First Dictionary

Specifically designed for beginning readers, this updated, extensively illustrated reference encompasses 1,800 of the words most frequently used by youngsters who are beginning to read, as well as offering helpful definitions and sample sentences to clarify meaning. An excellent reference book for first, second, and third graders, with 1800 entries, each followed by an example sentence. A fine ``How to Use Your Dictionary'' guide prefaces the volume. Each entry appears clearly in bold, blue typeface. Definitions are simple, and child-friendly; many full-color illustrations and photographs enrich the child's understanding of the words. In the case of verbs, particularly irregular ones, the past tense is given in a cogent, confusion-free way (``Ate is a form of eat. Chris eats three meals a day. Last night he ate pizza for supper.'') Altogether, a fine book for both home use and classroom. (Reference. 6-8)